The law enforcement authorities have increased their searches and are seizing a large amount of cash due to the implementation of the model election code. This has caused panic among the common people, especially those in small businesses and professions that primarily deal with cash.
According to the Election Commission, individuals can carry a maximum of Rs 50,000 in cash without needing any documents. However, if someone is carrying more than Rs 50,000 and cannot provide valid documents or establish the purpose of the money, it will be seized. The seized cash will only be released if it is proven to be unrelated to the elections.
If the amount seized from an individual is above Rs 10 lakh, it will be referred to the Income Tax Department for further investigation. The person will also have to explain where they obtained the cash exceeding the set limit.
The Election Commission officials will also be monitoring community and social functions to ensure that they are not funded by any political party or candidate. They will also be on the lookout for any instances of distributing money for votes during these functions.
After the implementation of the model code of conduct, expenditure observers, surveillance teams, flying squads, and police are all active in the state. This code will remain in effect until the end of the polling procedure.
The Election Commission of India will directly oversee the appointment of squads and observers. They have already been appointed in all Assembly constituencies in the five poll-bound states: Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Mizoram.
